About Phyllis Taylor Pianka
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Complete List of Writers.com Classes
Introduction to Fiction Writing (8 weeks)
The market for popular fiction is both cyclical and insatiable. The focus of this course is on familiarizing writers with basic techniques that make fiction salable. Weekly lectures, helpful exercises, and interaction between students on work-in-progress or new ventures will educate writers as well as stimulate the writing process.
The classes include the seven techniques of defining characters, the eleven elements of plot, selecting viewpoint characters, opening hooks, writing dynamic dialogue, premise and pace, using color and texture to bring your work to life, research that provides authenticity, the final
polish...and what to do next.
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Constructing the Novel (10 weeks)
The students who sign on for this intensive class should already have a novel in progress, or a partially completed novel that has lost its way. We will focus on character development and motivation, plot momentum, dynamic dialogue, universal appeal, conflict, and above all, creating a page turner that will hook the reader. We will also discuss research, market slant, how to write a synopsis, and how to submit your manuscript to a publisher.
When the class is completed, (10 weeks) each student will have a line-by-line critique of his work of up to 50 pages plus a query letter
or synopsis and a file of handouts for easy reference.
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Constructing the Novel II (10 weeks)
This intensive class will concentrate on writing a clean, clear, and compelling novel that is close to being ready for submission. Instead of a weekly lecture, we will offer personalized sessions for those who request help on dialogue, characterization, pacing, or any other aspect of writing fiction.
Students will submit 1250 words each week, as well as work that may be assigned. We will focus on writing and polishing the best synopsis possible to be used both as a guideline for writing the novel and a powerful sales tool upon submission of the manuscript. Your novel should be well underway or at least carefully mapped out for plot and character.
The prerequisite for this class is Constructing the Novel (see above), or permission from the teacher.
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Creating Conflict: The Signature Series. (3 week class)
Conflict, perhaps the most difficult element to master in writing fiction, is the energy that drives character, plot, and reader identification. In this intensive study of conflict we will: * Analyze both internal; and external conflict. * Learn the difference between conflict and complication. * Learn when and how to introduce conflict. * Learn how to match conflict to character. * Learn how to pace conflict by creating a plot line. * Learn how to use multiple conflicts. * Learn how conflicts are negotiated and resolved.
The instructor will offer one lecture per week and include examples and handouts. Students will be expected to submit 1500 words per week for critique by the instructor and fellow students.
The Signature Series is a collection of three-week classes exploring single aspects of creative fiction. Future sessions will analyze:
How to Use Body Language ( one of the most common problems in fiction)
Distinctive Dialogue
Making Characters Breathe
Keys to Plotting
Avoiding the Pitfalls of a First Novel
Storytelling VS Reporting (another very common problem)
Student Requirements : A novel underway or a novel that needs help. Or if you have a solid idea for a novel and are serious about writing, your work may be considered for this class.
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